The Louisiana Film Prize franchise unveils their newest product at tonight’s Top 20 film finalists announcement party at Robinson Film Center. LAFP worked with Great Raft Brewing to craft a special edition beer VIVA Wit!

The Belgian Wit’s name —VIVA Wit— was inspired by the slogan, “VIVA LA FILM PRIZE!” and crafted to embody the spirit of the film, music and start-up competitions.

“We worked with the Film Prize team to come up with a beer we thought would represent all the creativity and innovation that’s coming out of all three of those events,” said Lindsay Nations, co-founder of Great Raft. “It’s a Belgian Wit brewed with coriander, orange zest and grapefruit zest.”

LAFP director Gregory Kallenberg shared with the The Times what it was like to work with Great Raft to create a winning beer.

The Times: LAFP traditionally has a tequila toast. How does beer tie in?

Gregory Kallenberg: The fermented juice of the agave always will be our ritualistic toasting concoction. That said, we imagine this beer fits in perfectly while you’re watching your Film Prize films, hanging out with our filmmakers during the fest or waiting for the Film Prize winner to be announced.

TT: What flavors did LAFP and Great Raft decide were best for the VIVA Wit?

GK: Going to Great Raft and talking beer was like heading to the Paris Culinary Institute and talking about a French pastry. It was amazing to brainstorm flavors with them. We landed on a light, crisp beer with bright accents of citrus and the warming spice of coriander.

TT: How does this flavor represent LAFP?

GK: VIVA Wit flavor is like tasting victory. This beer has been specially crafted so that every sip you take is like winning the Film Prize’s $50,000.

TT: Where will the special edition VIVA Wit be available and for how long?

GK: The VIVA Wit will be available at select outlets all over town. Great Raft, Twisted Root, Franks and Grimaldi’s will be amongst the first to serve it. It will only be available during Prize Season (through Oct. 4), so get a flagon while you can. VIVA LA WIT! VIVA LA FILM PRIZE!